Specular Hematite (Specularite)
Hematite (Specular variety) · Mineral Specimen / Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Trigonal system; typically occurs in a micaceous, foliated, or tabular habit for this variety.
Mineral Group
Oxides (Hematite group)
Chemical Formula
Fe2O3 (Iron(III) oxide)
Formation Process
Hydrothermal or metamorphic; forms via the oxidation of iron-rich fluids or high-grade metamorphism of iron-bearing sedimentary rocks.
About This Crystal
A sparkling, dark grey to black mineral with a high metallic luster. It is composed of tiny, mirror-like flakes or scales that resemble glitter or sequins across a rough matrix.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Gunmetal grey to black; Streak: Blood-red to reddish-brown; Cleavage: None; Fracture: Uneven; Specific Gravity: 5.26; Luster: Splendent metallic.
Optical Properties
Opaque; exhibits a mirror-like reflection from individual crystal faces. Non-pleochroic and singly refractive (due to opacity).
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Brazil (Minas Gerais), USA (Lake Superior region), England (Cumbria), and South Africa.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness 5.5 - 6.5; brittle toughness; stable under normal conditions but can flake off easily.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft, dry brush or warm soapy water; avoid ultrasonic cleaners which may dislodge flakes; store separately to prevent scratching softer stones.
Rarity & Value
Common mineral; value is generally low for raw specimens, determined by the 'sparkle' factor and size of the specimen ($5 - $50 for hand samples).
Special Characteristics
Distinctive 'glitter' effect caused by the reflection of light off thousands of tiny, randomly oriented micaceous hematite plates.
Lore & History
Historically used as a pigment (red ochre) since the Stone Age. In metaphysical lore, it is considered a grounding stone associated with the Root Chakra and protection.